TRIBUTES have poured in for one of Altrincham FC's best-known and best-loved volunteers, Dave Johnson, after he lost a long and bravely-fought battle with cancer last Friday evening.

Though he performed a variety of duties for the club, Dave was best known as the face of Alty after serving as doorman at the J.Davidson for over a decade and forging a well-earned reputation for being warm and courteous to visitors and home personnel alike.

"He was very much the meeter and greeter, the first person people saw when they arrived at the club, and he always did an excellent job of representing us," said chairman Grahame Rowley.

"He loved it and was very proud to be involved with the club, and he has left big shoes to fill.

"He always gave his time freely. As a chef, he cooked the pensioners' Christmas lunch at the club each year, and he coordinated the young-player-of-the-year award.

"He bought the trophy for that, as well as presenting it. He was very highly thought-of by everyone. His death is a great loss for us all."

Several players took to social media to express their sadness, while former Alty forward Duncan Watmore, now at Sunderland, said: "He was a lovely man. I always enjoyed seeing him every time I played, and I always had a great chat with him before games and after.

"How sad. I send my condolences to his family."

A funeral service for Dave will be held at the club at 1.30pm on Thursday, August 17, followed by burial at Hale cemetery.